4.7
(111)
2,069
hikers
47
hikes
Hiking around Thorold offers diverse landscapes, with trails winding along the Niagara Escarpment, which rises approximately 350 feet above sea level. The region features impressive waterfalls, such as Rockway Falls and Terrace Falls, where creeks plunge into deep gorges. Hikers can explore mature forests with varied tree species and follow paths alongside the historic Welland Canal. This geological setting provides a range of easy hiking trails through natural environments.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.62km
00:41
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
34
hikers
6.46km
01:43
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
31
hikers
5.21km
01:25
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Fifteen Mile Creek runs through the Rockway Conservation Area near St. Catharines, and is the source of the impressive Rockway Falls. The creek feeds a striking “ramp” waterfall that plunges into a deep gorge, creating one of the area’s most dramatic natural features. Trails wind along the creek's gorge, offering hikers forested paths, scenic lookouts, and access to the waterfalls. The creek and conservation area it flows through, blend natural beauty with convenience, making it a popular destination for exploring the stunning landscapes.
0
0
Rockway Conservation Area, located along the Niagara Escarpment, offers up dramatic scenery and rich history. The site features two waterfalls plunging 19.5 and 12.2 meters, as well as trails that wind through mature forests of basswood, sugar maple, walnut, and sycamore. Hikers can explore the Fifteen Mile Creek valley, discover remnants of historic salt springs dating back to 1792, and enjoy new accessible trails and lookouts that make the escarpment views easier to reach.
0
0
Lower Rockway Falls is accessible via the Rockway Conservation Trail and makes for a great destination when visiting the area. You can hike it as an out and back or as part of a longer hike on the nearby Bruce Trail.
0
0
Oakhill Park is a small neighbourhood green space in St. Catharines with open grass, a few shaded areas, and a simple pathway running through it. It’s an easy spot to pass through on local walks or use as a quick break point when connecting nearby residential trails.
0
0
Twelve Mile Creek runs through a long, forested valley with steady water views, small rapids, and shaded sections that feel nicely removed from the surrounding city. Trails and pathways follow the creek in several places, giving you easy access to the water and a mix of ravine lookouts, bridges, and calmer stretches where the creek widens out. It’s a peaceful green corridor and a reliable scenic feature along routes in this part of St. Catharines.
0
0
It's definitely very impressive when you sail past the falls on the boat. The Canadian Falls are even more important, but you have to see both.
2
0
Incredible location with views of Horseshoe Falls to your right and American Falls to your left, across the Niagara River. Also, enjoy views of the lower Niagara River and see boats from the US and Canadian sides offering tours close to the falls.
2
0
It's a beautiful place worth visiting several times. Horse Shoe Falls is more beautiful and powerful than the others.
2
0
Thorold offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 38 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the region features 48 hiking routes suitable for various skill levels.
Yes, Thorold has several easy loop trails perfect for a relaxed outing. Popular options include the Fifteen Mile Creek and Lower Rockaway Falls loop — Rockway Conservation Area, the Swayze Falls loop from Short Hills Provincial Park, and the Terrace Falls loop from Short Hills Provincial Park.
Many trails in Thorold are dog-friendly, especially within areas like Short Hills Provincial Park. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations or trail signage for any restrictions, and ensure your dog is on a leash.
Several easy trails in Thorold offer stunning waterfall views. The Fifteen Mile Creek and Lower Rockaway Falls loop in Rockway Conservation Area provides views of Rockway Falls. Within Short Hills Provincial Park, you can explore trails leading to Swayze Falls and Terrace Falls.
Absolutely. Many of Thorold's easy trails are suitable for families. Short Hills Provincial Park offers a natural environment with diverse forest sections, and the Welland Canal Parkway Trail is a paved, multi-use path ideal for all ages.
Beyond the trails themselves, Thorold is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the dramatic Niagara Escarpment, mature forests, and various waterfalls. Nearby attractions include the iconic View of Horseshoe Falls (Canadian Side) and Niagara Falls, both accessible via easy routes like the Niagara Falls – View of Niagara Falls loop.
The easy trails in Thorold are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the impressive waterfalls, and the well-maintained paths through mature forests.
While specific public transport routes directly to trailheads can vary, the Welland Canal Parkway Trail runs through Thorold and is generally accessible within the city. For more remote parks like Short Hills Provincial Park, checking local transit schedules for routes to nearby areas is recommended.
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and conservation areas. For instance, Rockway Conservation Area and Short Hills Provincial Park typically offer designated parking facilities. The Welland Canal Parkway Trail also has various access points with parking along its length.
Spring, summer, and fall all offer unique experiences for easy hikes in Thorold. Spring brings lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, summer provides warm weather for exploring, and fall showcases vibrant autumn foliage along the Escarpment. Winter can also be beautiful for snowshoeing or quiet walks, though some trails may be icy.
The Welland Canal Parkway Trail is a paved, multi-use trail that runs parallel to the Welland Canal, making it a good option for wheelchair users. For other trails, accessibility can vary, so it's advisable to check specific trail conditions before visiting.
Generally, permits are not required for casual hiking on most public trails in Thorold, including those in Short Hills Provincial Park or along the Welland Canal. However, some conservation areas might have specific entry fees or regulations, so it's always good to check with the managing authority if you plan to visit a specific site.
Yes, the Welland Canal Parkway Trail is an excellent option for easy walks with views of the historic Welland Canal. This multi-use trail runs for 42 km, offering scenic perspectives of the canal and its operations.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.